Sapphire – A Stone Of Many Colours, Stories and Qualities

Sapphires are one of the three gem varieties of corundum. They are known for their stunning blue colour but can also be yellow, purple, orange and green. Pink sapphires are also found when the quantity of chromium increases in the gemstone to create a pinkish colour. The deeper the pink colour the higher the value of the gemstone.

One of the largest gem-quality sapphires found in the world weighs 733 carats was found in Australia and is called the Black Star of Queensland.

Why sapphires?

They are considered beautiful additions to jewellery pieces but due to their durability and hardness they are also very effective additions to non-ornamental applications such as scientific instruments, wristwatch crystals and electronic wafers. Most recently the sapphire has enjoyed a revival thanks to Princess Diana’s and now Kate Middleton’s diamond and sapphire engagement ring. It caused a flurry of lookalike rings that were very well-received by an admiring public. Sapphire encrusted rings are amongst the top trends for engagement rings in 2013.

Where do sapphires come from?

The sapphire gemstone is mined from alluvial deposits in primary underground minds located in Australasia, Central Asia and Africa. Significant deposits are found in Eastern Australia, Thailand, Sri Lanka, China, Madagascar, East Africa and North America. Once mined, sapphires can undergo several treatment methods to improve their clarity and colour. Untreated sapphires which have excellent quality can be considered highly valuable and likewise rudimentary stones which have undergone a series of treatments can improve the gem’s value significantly.

What do sapphires mean?

Sapphires have enjoyed a magical and religious association throughout time. It is a jewel steeped in history and associated with sacred things and forever considered the gem of gems. They were believed to be celestial stones by the Persians as their colour symbolised the heavens. Sapphires were also thought to contain wisdom, spiritual enlightenment, astrological influence and power of insight by the Hindu, Christian, Greek, Jewish and Buddhist religions respectively. It is the birthstone that represents September.

A sapphire represents:

• Psychic abilities
• Inspiration
• Love
• Meditation
• Peace
• Healing
• Power
• Prosperity
• Protection

Sapphires are luxurious and beautiful and are impressive inclusions in piece of jewellery. Diamond International’s Diamond and Sapphire Engagement Ring is an excellent example of the opulence which can be created through complementing diamonds with sapphires. You can also consult with one of our experienced jewellery makers to create a truly custom piece of jewellery with your choice of carat, colour, clarity and cut.  We are happy to work with you to bring your beautiful jewellery dreams into reality.